LOUGHBOROUGH University’s Chloe Birch is hoping to lead Loughborough Sport in to the National Badminton League’s play-offs.

They host Milton Keynes in the final round of the inaugural league on Monday (April 27), with the winner set to land a chance at becoming the new format’s first champions.

“This fixture is so important,” said Birch. “We really need to win and get some good games on the board to make sure we qualify for the play-offs.

“Our main aim as a team has always been to qualify for play-offs. We had a bit of a tricky start to the season but things are picking up now and we all really want to play in the play-offs and challenge to win.

“Our first match [of the season] was a home fixture and it was really nice playing in Loughborough where family and friends can come and watch; the crowd were really good and they really got behind us.

“Everyone should come down and cheer us on. It’s good fun to watch, it’s good fun for us to play in.”

Already achieving individual success around the world, Chloe will again be part of a winning doubles partnership with Commonwealth Games silver and bronze medallist Jenny Wallwork, and believes the league is great for her as an athlete.

“The standard of the league is really high. You’ve got GB athletes that have played in major championships, foreign athletes who are some of the best in the world and are aiming to qualify for the next Olympics, so it’s a really good thing to be part of as an up-and-coming player. The NBL has really helped my ambitions as an individual player too, as I get to play with top players who I don’t get to play with on an individual basis.”

Although already a vital component of the team, coach Mike Adams is keen to stress that Chloe is still a developing player, who’s best years are ahead of her.

He added: “Chloe is quite unique to Loughborough, as she’s the only GB programme player not to be training in Milton Keynes, so we’re really pleased to have her here.

“I’ve known Chloe for about 12 years, so it’s really great to see her here studying at the university and to spotlight her playing in the National Badminton League is fantastic.

“At the moment Chloe is a developing player, so to be playing with the likes of Lauren Smith and Jenny Wallwork who are already established world class players and to not look out of place, and win most of her games, is testament to the ability she has.”

The doors open at 7.30pm on Monday in the Sir David Wallace Sports Hall with tickets starting at £5.